MPMUM 09/10

Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin looking at a tag worn by participant Khairul Anuar Abu Kasim from Universiti Malaya after opening the National Students Consultative Council meeting at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre in Putrajaya yesterday.

Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin said while ac-quiring professional expertise was crucial, students should develop sound problem-solving skills and the ability to come up with new ideas.

"Students should not restrict themselves to seeking knowledge merely during lectures but be more creative in acquiring knowledge from various avenues and sources.

"This includes participation in activities that could expose them to various experiences, skills and knowledge that cannot be gained during lectures.

"Leadership and organisational management skills, for example, can be acquired and sharpened through participation in associations or clubs at institutions of higher learning," Muhyiddin, who is also education minister, said at the opening of the National Students Consultative Council meeting at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre, here yesterday.

Also present was Higher Education Minister, Datuk Seri Mohd Khaled Nordin.

Muhyiddin said students' participation and engagement in discourses could also enhance their thinking and analytical skills.

They could also master the art of putting their arguments across besides churning out good ideas and suggestions.

They, he said should build on these vital skills during their university days.

"This way, student community in our country will not only develop leadership talents but also sharpen minds in handling issues that come their way," he said.

This, he added would train them to be ready to listen to opposing or differing views.

Muhyiddin said he believed that by being all-round thinkers, students would also be able to refrain from being dragged into pointless polemics.

"God willing, by encouraging healthy discussion and exchange of views, our students will be more open in handling various current issues.

"I believe that as educated people with access to various sources of knowledge and information, our students will be able to analyse issues of interest in a just and objective manner."

Muhyiddin expressed hope that students in both public and private institutions of higher learning could help the government by making meaningful contributions to national development.